After we returned back from Abu Simbel we met up with others from our group and headed on to another optional tour – the Island of Philae. The island was known as the Pearl of Egypt. This was another temple that was moved due to the rising waters of the Nile after the High Dam of Aswan was built.

The temple had many Greek and Roman impacts on the island. The true gem of the island was that it was a temple built to worship the Goddess Isis. It’s crazy to imagine them having to move another large temple due to the water. However, UNESCO stepped in to help protect this treasure.

Michael pointed out quite a few different styles that were placed here over the years. Including Christianity as well.

The complex is very grand – and of course, very detailed.

Honestly, there is a lot to unpack with the mythology behind the place. Definitely worth a read, but I’m not going to do it justice here.

Returning by boat, we made our way back to Aswan. From here, we moved on to a spice shop. We were treated to a variety of nuts, tea, and got to smell a bunch of different spices.

Once we finished shopping, we returned to the boat for a very late lunch. (Around 2:30 pm). After eating and freshening up – we went to Kom Ombo. It was also interesting because there isn’t enough space to dock and the cruise ships have to coordinate lining them up so passengers have to walk through the different lobbies to get to shore. I’ll post a video later of this – one of our new friends from the trip had taken a video while we were getting off the boat.

The fun thing about these next two temples is we got there as the sun was setting – and got to see all of the columns lit up.

All of the temples are a bit different, but they have a lot of similarities. You get to see a variety of different gods and goddesses – and all of the hieroglyphics tell stories.

A fun change of pace was when we went to The Crocodile Museum. This is directly next to the temple – and was a very quick pit stop. Also, this was within walking distance of our cruise ship.

What went on to be the longest day ever – we returned to our ship and it was the “party” night. They had arranged for a happy hour, dinner, and an Egyptian party. We were exhausted from another early day, but we rallied for part of it. We went to the happy hour and dinner and went to bed shortly after.

Upcoming Activities:

-Ride in a traditional horse and carriage ride (yikes!)
-Temple of Edfu
-Cruise to Luxor
-Karnak Temple